By Kennedy Nalyanya
ACCRA – In a national tragedy, Ghana's Defence Minister, Edward Omane Boamah, and Environment, Science and Technology Minister, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, were among eight people killed in a military helicopter crash in the central Ashanti region. The Z9 helicopter, which was flying from the capital, Accra, to Obuasi for an event focused on tackling illegal mining, went down in a dense forest with no survivors.
The incident, which Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has called a "national tragedy," has sent shockwaves across the country. The bodies of the deceased, including three crew members and five passengers, have been recovered and transported to Accra. A solemn ceremony was held at the Air Force Base to receive the coffins, which were draped in the Ghanaian flag.
In addition to the two ministers, the victims have been identified as Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed and Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the governing National Democratic Congress party. The crew members were named as Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
President John Dramani Mahama has declared three days of national mourning, with flags across the country directed to fly at half-mast. The President, who reportedly feels "down, down emotionally," has suspended all his scheduled activities for the rest of the week.
The cause of the crash has not yet been confirmed, and the Ghanaian military has launched a full investigation. As the nation grapples with the loss, images believed to be of the charred helicopter wreckage have been circulating on social media.
The planned burial of the Muslim victims has been postponed as authorities work to fully identify all the bodies. The government has not yet announced the full funeral arrangements for the deceased.
Both ministers were known for their dedicated service. As Defence Minister, Edward Omane Boamah was actively involved in addressing jihadist activities near Ghana's northern border. He had previously served as communications and environment minister. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, the Environment Minister, was a key figure in the fight against illegal gold mining, a practice known as "Galamsey" that has caused significant environmental damage. The fight against Galamsey was a major issue during President Mahama's previous run for office.
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